Monday, 7 February 2011

SIPTU wants answers as 170 jobs at Gallaghers, Ardara, on the line

SIPTU has said it is concerned that up to 170 jobs remain at risk at Gallagher’s Bakery in Ardara Co. Donegal and that management has failed to engage with the union on the future of the workforce. The union also claims there are “a lot of unanswered questions” in relation to the future of the business and possible changes which may help to save some jobs.

(Worker's relay the bad news outside Gallaghers bakery, Ardara)

SIPTU Organiser, Kevin McKinney, said;

“As far as we can tell the 170 jobs could go if the company shut the whole Ardara site down. There is the possibility of some jobs being saved if the fresh bread side of the business can be sold. However, the company claim that workers may be offered relocation to its Dublin site is a complete red herring. These job losses will be devastating to this small Donegal community and we want to try to keep as many jobs in the area as possible. Relocation to Dublin is not an option for most families who are deeply concerned for their future.”

“SIPTU have tried repeatedly to engage with the company to no avail. We will continue in our efforts to engage in discussions with the company and to represent the workers who are facing possible unemployment. Our members are fearful for their jobs and are being kept in the dark about what, if anything, is going on to save them. There are a lot of unanswered questions. We are calling on the company to meet immediately with the workers’ representatives.”